Mountain Lion Kills a Dog Near Bridgeport

A mountain lion has killed a dog near the popular Travertine Hot Springs in Bridgeport. Reports indicate that the lion has been sited during other occasions.

Officials with the Mono Sheriffs Department report that on Sunday afternoon, March 8, 2009, Bridgeport local and Librarian Abbey Bridges was taking a hike with her dog near the Travertine Hot Springs area outside of Bridgeport.

During the hike, the dog walked away from Bridges and over by some Pinion trees. Bridges suddenly heard the sounds of her dog being attacked and killed.

Officials write that Bridges later returned to the area with friends to search for her dog and found large mountain lion tracks in the area along with the remains of her dog.

The mountain lion has been seen before during the daytime on Masonic Road and at the Bridgeport Airport on the runway, officials report. The Sheriffs department advises people to be aware of the possibility of seeing the mountain lion if they are out walking around the Bridgeport area, especially if dogs are on the walk.

Mountain lions are dangerous and should never be approached, according to officials. Officials say that if anyone sees a mountain lion that is a threat to public safety, dont hesitate to contact the Sheriffs Department who can respond and will notify the Department of Fish and Game as well.